The 12 semi-mature trees – to replace elms wiped out by disease more than four decades ago – will be planted close to a path running though Longbarn recreation ground.

They will be a new disease resistant variety, which are long-living and robust.

Funding for the trees has been provided by Trees for Cities, Festival Republic and Ye Olde Oak Ltd.

Mr Benn said: “When Britain’s elms were wiped out in the 1960s it was a terrible loss. It is fantastic that we are now able to plant a new species of elm and boost the health of the city at the same time.”